Contacts

Bats

Bats have an important role in ecosystems around the globe. They eat insects and agricultural pests, but they also can carry rabies. Rabies can only be confirmed through laboratory testing.

What You Should Do

If You Have been Bitten by a Bat

Bats have small teeth and bites may not be easily seen, therefore people do not always know if they have been bitten by a bat. If you wake up to find a bat in your room, see a bat in the room of an unattended child, or see a bat near a mentally impaired or intoxicated person, seek medical advice and have the bat tested. When in doubt call RIDOH at 401-222-2577.

If a bat bites you, wash the affected area thoroughly with soap and water and get medical advice immediately. Whenever possible, the bat should be captured and sent to a lab for rabies testing.

If Your Pet is Exposed to a Bat

If you think your pet or other domestic animal has been exposed to a bat, contact a veterinarian or the health department and have the bat tested for rabies. Remember to keep vaccinations current for cats, dogs, and other pets.

If You have Bats in Your House

If a bat is present in your home and you cannot rule out the possibility of exposure, leave the bat alone and contact Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management Fish and Wildlife at 401-789-0281 for assistance.